The Minister for Health and Active Aging, Jo Etienne Abela, announced the launch of three services which together will help improve the quality of life of people living with Type 1 diabetes.

“Today is an important day. This is a crucial milestone in diabetes care in Malta,” stated Minister Jo Etienne Abela.
Minister Abela explained that through an investment of €1.4 million, the Tandem t:slim x2 insulin pump will be provided free of charge. This pump works in synergy with the already available CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitors) and will offer automatic and continuous insulin therapy. The second launch is that of a multidisciplinary insulin pump clinic at the Ċensu Moran Centre, manned by a newly trained team of professionals. The third measure is the establishment of a 24/7 contact centre offering advice and assistance related to this equipment.

Dr Abela said that, as from today, this service is being offered to patients aged 18 and under, as well as to patients who develop diabetes following surgery involving the total removal of the pancreas. In the coming months, the service will be extended to cover all patients with Type 1 diabetes. An identical service will also be launched from the Gozo General Hospital for Gozitan patients in the coming days.